From left: Dr Stephen Tangwe, Temp Electrical Engineer, Mr Themba Khumalo, Manager: Facilities, Mr Tshepo Phehlane, Acting Estate and Infrastructure Senior Director, Mr Setumo Llale, Executive Director: Resources and Operations and Ms Cynthia Tiwani, Manager: Facilities (Welkom Campus).

The Central University of Technology (CUT) has once again showcased its commitment to sustainability and innovation in higher education. At the HEFMA 2025 Annual Conference, held at the North-West University Potchefstroom Campus, CUT was honoured with the Renewable Energy Management Initiative Award under Category 2: Renewable Energy.

This prestigious recognition highlights CUT’s ongoing efforts to implement its Sustainable Campus Plan a comprehensive approach to renewable energy, energy efficiency, water management, and waste reduction across all campuses. Central to this initiative is the design, installation, and real-time monitoring of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, ensuring that renewable energy is actively harnessed to support the university’s operations.

CUT has already installed two major solar plants at the Bloemfontein Campus, with capacities of 152 kWp and 218 kWp, alongside multiple rooftop PV systems across key facilities. The Welkom Campus is set to expand its renewable energy footprint with a 500 kWp solar plant and hybrid systems that will further strengthen the university’s contribution to clean energy.

Thanks to these initiatives, CUT has achieved a renewable energy contribution of 34.55% to total electricity consumption in 2025, nearing its annual target of 35%. The university’s long-term vision is to reach a 40% contribution from renewable sources by 2040.

“This recognition reflects our commitment to building a sustainable, energy-smart institution,” said Dr Stephen Tangwe. “We are proud to contribute meaningfully to decarbonisation while advancing innovative energy solutions that support teaching, learning, and research.”

Aligned with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) Sustainability Plan for Higher Institutions, CUT’s Sustainable Campus Plan supports the advancement of renewable energy and sustainable development across both campuses.

Mr Setumo Llale, Executive Director: Resources and Operations.

“The adoption of this plan has significantly promoted decarbonisation within our campuses. It has accelerated the uptake and utilisation of electricity from solar PV systems and contributed to an increase in the key performance indicators for electricity produced from solar sources. Our future projects include the construction of a 500 kWp Solar PV Plant at the Welkom Campus, as well as the design and installation of a 100 kWp hybrid PV system at BHP Phase 1, and a 30 kWp system at the Welkom Library,” said Mr Setumo Llale, Executive Director: Resources and Operations.

The HEFMA Awards celebrate excellence in facilities management and sustainability within higher education institutions. CUT’s win underscores its leadership in implementing forward-thinking energy strategies and transforming campus operations for a greener future.